Lake cruises in Bariloche let you experience Patagonia’s grandeur from the water – a must-do when visiting this region. The best day trips head to Victoria Island, where ancient arrayán trees create an enchanted forest setting. We especially love the full-day cruise that combines island hiking with a visit to Los Cantaros Falls – the views are spectacular and the guides are top-notch.
For a more intimate experience, small-group sailing excursions on Nahuel Huapi Lake provide peaceful alternatives to the bigger tour boats. Most tours include hotel pickup, bilingual guides, and entrance fees.
Our favorite tours maximize time on the water while avoiding tourist crowds. Let’s look at the top boat excursions in Bariloche.
Key Points
- The Victoria Island & Arrayanes Forest Excursion offers a 1-hour boat ride across Lake Nahuel Huapi to explore unique flora and ancient cave paintings.
- The Puerto Blest, Los Cantaros Falls & Frias Lake Navigation tour by RipioTurismo provides scenic views, though some travelers report discomfort on the catamaran.
- The Circuito Chico & National Park Boat Journey offers a boat ride to Victoria Island and Arrayanes National Park, but with mixed reviews on value for the cost.
- The Puerto Blest & Los Cantaros Falls Tour by RipioTurismo is a highly recommended option with a 90% recommendation rate and positive reviews on the scenic experience.
- The Nahuel Huapi Lake Cruise & Sailboat Ride offers a full-day cruise with a visit to Victoria Island and Arrayán Forest, though language barriers and unexpected costs are noted.
Bariloche: Boat Trip to Victoria Island and the Arrayanes Forest
The boat excursion to Victoria Island and the Arrayanes Forest offers visitors a captivating journey through the scenic landscapes of Bariloche.
The trip begins at Puerto Pañuelo, sailing for an hour across Lake Nahuel Huapi to reach the Quetrihue peninsula, home to the unique Arrayan shrubs.
Continuing on to Victoria Island, travelers can explore native flora and ancient cave paintings against a backdrop of volcanic sand beaches.
A stop at a rustic cottage in the Arrayanes Forest provides an opportunity to enjoy tea, snacks, and souvenirs.
While reviews are mixed, the tour promises stunning natural beauty and the chance to discover Patagonia’s rich history and culture.
Read our full review: Bariloche: Boat Trip to Victoria Island and the Arrayanes Forest Review
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Sailing across the tranquil waters of Lake Nahuel Huapi, the boat navigation to Puerto Blest, Los Cantaros Falls, and Frias Lake offers a captivating journey through Bariloche’s stunning natural landscapes.
Operated by RipioTurismo, the tour accommodates a maximum of 50 travelers, departing at 8:30 am. While the boat navigation is included, gratuities and port taxes are additional costs.
Though not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, potentially with a multilingual guide.
With an impressive 4.8-star average rating from 18 reviews, the tour showcases scenic views, though some have noted discomfort on the catamaran and impersonal service.
Read our full review: Boat Navigation to Puerto Blest, Los Cantaros Falls & Frias Lake Review
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Exploring Bariloche’s Circuito Chico and the boat journey to Victoria Island and Arrayanes National Park provides visitors with a comprehensive introduction to the region’s natural wonders.
This 3.9-rated tour, operated by RipioTurismo, takes up to 25 travelers on a scenic excursion. Priced at around $170 USD per person, the tour includes transfers, gratuities, and port taxes.
Departing at 8:30 AM from hotel pickups, the tour explores the Circuito Chico before a boat ride to Victoria Island and Arrayanes National Park.
While reviews are mixed, many praise the excellent guide and the breathtaking views. However, some find the cost high for the short duration and lack of certain promised visits.
Read our full review: Circuito Chico & Boat Navigation to Victoria Island and Arrayanes Nat Park Review
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Frequently, travelers to Bariloche embark on a boat navigation to Puerto Blest and Los Cantaros Falls, an excursion operated by the reputable RipioTurismo.
Priced from $159 per person, the tour accommodates up to 15 participants and is recommended by 90% of past travelers. The package includes boat navigation, gratuities, and port taxes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Pickup is available, with an 8:30 am start time. Though not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate, and the tour may feature a multi-lingual guide.
Based on 10 overwhelmingly positive reviews, this boat tour to Puerto Blest and Los Cantaros Falls is an excellent choice for those seeking a scenic experience in Bariloche.
Read our full review: Boat Navigation to Puerto Blest and Los Cantaros Falls From Bariloche Review
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Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike From Bariloche
This full-day excursion from Bariloche to Puerto Blest offers travelers a captivating sightseeing cruise across Nahuel Huapi Lake and a guided hike to the stunning Los Cantaros Waterfall.
The tour includes transportation, boat navigation, and a chance to explore the native coihue and Patagonian cypress trees.
While lunch and park fees aren’t included, the activity is family-friendly and provides free time to hike or relax by the lake.
Reviews highlight the beautiful landscapes, but some travelers have experienced price discrepancies and language barriers with the guides.
Read our full review: Puerto Blest Sightseeing Cruise and Waterfalls Hike From Bariloche Review
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Nahuel Huapi Lake Cruise With Victoria Island and Arrayan Forest Walk
The Nahuel Huapi Lake Cruise with Victoria Island and Arrayán Forest Walk offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience for visitors to Bariloche. This full-day tour takes travelers on a scenic cruise across the Nahuel Huapi Lake, followed by a nature walk on Victoria Island and a visit to the Arrayán National Park.
While the tour includes hotel pickup and knowledgeable guides, reviews suggest some issues with language barriers and unexpected costs. Travelers should confirm the pickup location and be prepared for potential overcrowding on the boats.
Read our full review: Nahuel Huapi Lake Cruise With Victoria Island and Arrayan Forest Walk Review
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Sailboat Ride Through the Lakes of Bariloche
Sailing across the serene waters of Bariloche’s lakes offers travelers an exclusive and intimate glimpse into the region’s natural beauty.
Operated by Tangol, the Exclusive Sailboat Trip through the Lakes of Bariloche takes a maximum of 6 travelers on a scenic journey for around $100 per person.
Passengers will enjoy navigation aboard a sailboat, led by a professional crew who provide snacks, coffee, and tea.
While reviews are generally positive, some note the boat may be smaller than expected, and the quality of snacks could be improved.
Read our full review: Sailboat Ride Through the Lakes of Bariloche Review
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Common Questions
What Are the Best Times of Year to Take a Boat Tour in Bariloche?
The best times to take a boat tour in Bariloche are during the summer months of November to March when the weather’s warmest and the lake’s calm. Visitors can enjoy scenic views and wildlife spotting on the water.
Are Children’s Life Jackets Available on the Boat Tours?
Most boat tours in Bariloche provide children’s life jackets to ensure the safety of all passengers. They prioritize the well-being of families and make accommodations for young travelers on their cruises.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Tours?
Yes, passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm their policies and any restrictions.
How Accessible Are the Boat Tours for Individuals With Disabilities?
The boat tours generally accommodate individuals with disabilities, providing accessible boarding and on-board facilities. However, it’s best to check with the tour operators in advance to ensure specific needs can be accommodated.
Are Any of the Boat Tours Suitable for Pet Companions?
Some boat tours allow pet companions, but it’s best to check with the tour operators beforehand. Restrictions may apply, and there may be additional fees or requirements for bringing a pet onboard.
The Sum Up
Bariloche offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that allow visitors to explore the region’s stunning natural scenery. From sailing on Nahuel Huapi Lake to hiking in the Arrayanes Forest, these excursions provide a unique and memorable way to experience the beauty of Patagonia. Visitors can choose from a range of options to suit their interests and budget, ensuring a fulfilling and enjoyable experience.